Inherit the Wind Education Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Act, Scene, Line)

Quote #4

HORNBECK. Ever give your pupils a snap-quiz on existence?

RACHEL. What?

HORNBECK. Where we came from, where we are, where we're going?

RACHEL. All the answers to those questions are in the Bible.

HORNBECK. (With a genuine incredulity) All?! You feed the youth of Hillsboro

From the little truck-garden of your mind?

Hornbeck is pushing Rachel to see whether she ever thinks for herself. He's upset to find out that not only does she not think too much, but she doesn't want her students to, either. This moment will become very important at the end of the play, when Rachel shows a real change in her attitude. Even "old dogs" can learn new tricks, eh?

Quote #5

BRADY. If you had a son, Mr. Sillers, or a daughter, what would you think if that sweet child came home from school and told you that a Godless teacher— (I, II, 158-60)

What does this line tell us about the way children are considered to be fundamentally innocent, no matter what they do? Is this how you view kids? Why or why not? Do you think this view stems from certain readings of the Bible? Why or why not?

Quote #6

BRADY. […] I tell you, if this law is not upheld, this boy will become one of a generation, shorn of its faith by the teachings of Godless science! (II, II, 56-58)

Wowzers, Brady is really taking this trial to an extreme place. But he does that because he understands the influence education can have on an entire generation of children. At least Drummond and Brady can agree on that point, even if they don't agree on the particulars of what should be taught in schools.